Chinese Medicine

Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medicine practice that involves inserting thin needles into specific acupuncture points on the body to promote healing and balance. 

Acupuncture may help not only with pain, but also internal medicine such as women’s health, anxiety, sleep, digestion, skin conditions and fertility. 

Acupuncture is part of Chinese Medicine. In acupuncture we use fine, thin needles and tap them into specific points in the body that are found on channels that run along the body. In Chinese Medicine acupuncture is used with the idea of restoring balance in the body’s energy flow. 

This highly depends on what is being treated! It also depends on if the condition is acute or chronic. Chronic conditions will require more treatments.

Some conditions such as women’s health may require several weekly treatments (6-12) over weeks or months, other such as pain may improve in 3-6 sessions.

Chinese medicine is not a quick fix! It took time to become ill, it will take time to recover. It also depends on patient compliance with taking herbal medicine and following lifestyle and diet advice.

With acupuncture or herbal medicine the more often the treatment, the better the results. An example is if you are taking antibiotics, it takes more than one tablet to see any results, you need to finish the course.

Acupuncture is usually not painful, and most of the time you will feel nothing. You might feel a slight pinch or tingling sensation when the needle is inserted, followed by a feeling of warmth, heaviness, or a dull ache. The needles are very fine, much thinner than those used for injections. Often patients find acupuncture to be a relaxing experience and look forward to their sessions. 

Chinese medicine is generally considered to be safe but occasionally may be associated with possible adverse reactions in individual cases. These are usually mild and temporary, and can include soreness, bruising, and bleeding at the needle site. 

Patients may also experience dizziness, feeling lightheaded, and nausea. If you feel any of these during your treatment, please communicate this with your practitioner during the treatment. 

It is also important to eat and hydrate before your appointment. 

You may also feel drowsy after acupuncture, so it is important to rest your body after your appointment.

The practitioner will assess your condition by asking questions, observing your tongue, and feeling your pulse. You’ll then lie down on the table, and the practitioner will insert needles into specific acupuncture points. The needles are typically left in place for 20 to 30 minutes. The session may include other techniques such as moxibustion, cupping and a herbal medicine prescription. We may also pop an infrared heat lamp on your belly, feet or back. 

An initial appointment is 60 mins, and a follow up appointment is 45 minutes. The needles will be retained for 20-40 minutes, depending on what is being treated. The appointment may include moxa, cupping or gua sha, as well as a herbal medicine prescription. 

Before your acupuncture appointment please make sure you eat a light meal and avoid strenuous activities. After the session please rest, stay hydrated, and avoid alcohol or heavy exercise for the remainder of the day to allow your body to fully benefit from the treatment.

Yes, our practitioners are registered with AHPRA and the relevant associations, and have provider numbers. The amount you can claim depends on your level of cover.